Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn is looking for stability at the North East club. He told the Sunderland Echo: "It would be great if Sunderland fans could get used to Premier League fixtures coming out and them always seeing their team among the leading clubs again.

"I have learned quickly that, when you mention stability in football, it can come back and bite you on the backside but, hopefully, stability is what we can have from now on.

"We have built almost three different teams in three years and it has been a very busy time on and off the pitch.

"You can't continue on that basis and continuity and stability are both things you strive for.

"I have looked back at the history books and I would love this club to have a proper long run in the Premier League now.

"Since the period before the mid-1950s, when Sunderland looked like being a permanent fixture in the top division, the club's longest run in what is now the Premier League has been six years.

"That's not a lot for a club this size and with this potential.

"During my watch as chairman, I would love us to get to seven years and beyond. That is when you say you are a proper Premier League club - when you are in the top league year after year.

"I feel that would be a real achievement."